Top Travel Tips For Singles in 2020

Whether you’re dreaming of a beach vacation, a solo adventure, a lifestyle change, or the opportunity to volunteer in Africa, we’ll have you covered in this article full of tips for single traveling women in 2020.

Let’s start with some practical things you can work on to make sure your dream holiday for 2020 actually happens!

Ways To Make That Singles Beach Vacation A Reality

Beach vacations can be very revitalizing, but they can also take a big toll on your bank account. Fortunately, there are ways to make your dream vacation a reality, even if you’re on a tight budget.

Start Saving Early

Make a conscious effort now to start saving and budgeting for your trip. It’s difficult to save unless you’ve a plan in place. Plan on putting away a certain amount of money each week into a separate account so you aren’t tempted to spend it. Consider a savings app on your phone that helps to save automatically so you don’t even realize it’s happening. No matter which way you decide to save, make sure you start in plenty of time so it doesn’t feel so overwhelming.

Research Travel Hacks

Do some research on different travel hacks to save money on your trip. For example, you could set an alert for when airline prices drop so you know when to buy. You could opt to use a ride-hailing program or rent a car through an app instead of an agency. There are hundreds of ways to save money on your vacations, but you may learn about them unless you do some research for your trip.

Visit During the Shoulder Months

If you go to the beach during the peak months, then you’re going to pay peak prices. Since you obviously don’t want to go to the beach when the weather is terrible, try booking your trip during the shoulder months. April and September both tend to have beautiful weather without the crowds, which means you can get lower prices on hotels and other expenses.
Double check that there aren’t any festivals or other significant events going on during your week. Avoid spring break or other events, or you could end up paying significantly more.

Avoid the Most Popular Beaches

Many people start planning vacations to the most obvious places. Instead of going to a beach in Florida, consider trying out beaches off the beaten path. Finding affordable accommodations is much more accessible if you use Hotel Planner to find Orange Beach hotels in Alabama rather than South Beach hotels in Miami. These smaller beaches tend to be more affordable and less crowded, but they offer just as much beauty and as many activities on your vacation.

Search for Discounts Before You Go

Just because you’re on a budget doesn’t mean you want to sit in your hotel and miss out on the full experience. Shop around and search for discounts before you go or book activities in advance to get the best prices. Don’t be afraid to negotiate a better deal when you’re booking excursions as well. You could also consider checking discount sites to get even more savings on activities during your vacation.

Beach vacations typically come with pretty hefty price tags. Luckily, if you avoid the obvious beaches, plan ahead, and make a detailed savings strategy, you can have the perfect vacation without the stress and overspending.

Awesome Things To Do On A Night Out In London

Whether you’ve recently relocated to London, or are just stopping for a quick visit, it’s always great to know about the awesome things to do on a night out in London.

While London in the daytime is great, the night life is vibrant and energetic, and caters to singles, couples and even the kids.

We’ll give you some tips below on seeing the highlights, saving money, having a great time and staying safe doing it. All in London!

1. London Theatre

London is famous throughout the world for having the most vibrant theatre district.

There’s no way to describe it someone who hasn’t bee.

With so many theatres to choose from, you’ll never want for choices and will likely end up coming back for more.

Late-night shows are the best way to truly experience the London theatre district, and London theatre tickets are easy to acquire.

Remember to book your tickets in advance to avoid disappointment.

2. London Eye

The London Eye is a stunning landmark and tourist attraction.

This landmark is incredibly popular due to the unique aerial view it offers those who choose to ride it.

While many who visit the city choose to visit the London Eye during the day, it’s so much more striking at night.

Riding the London Eye at night will allow you to admire a beautifully lit up London, with all its icons shining brightly.

3. Museums

Ever since the movie A Night at the Museum, I’ve always wanted to visit a museum after sunset.

If you’re like me, you’ll be happy to know that many of London’s museums have a late-night opening at least once a week – and usually free of charge.

Ripley’s Believe it or Not is always open late (6am – 12am, daily), and should you wish it, you’ll able to view the most remarkable exhibits in London.

Tate Modern is open until 10pm on Fridays and Saturdays and has modern art collections from around the world.

The Victoria and Albert Museum, and the Natural History Museum have late-night openings as well, and often offer workshops and talks during those late night openings.

4. Free Comedy Shows

Who doesn’t love to laugh?

If you’re looking for a way to let off some steam and embrace the ‘laughter is the best medicine’ cliché, then head over to London’s Angel Comedy.

Shows begin at 8pm, 7 days a week and best of all?

Entry is free!

The acts include beginners and veterans alike, so be prepared for some stomach-clutching, tears-rolling laughter.

Needless to say, some shows are adult-oriented and are full of vulgar language that youngsters would find offensive.

5. Hampstead Scientific Society

This one is for the astronomy lovers (or, just lovers on a romantic date).

You can enjoy the London night sky and admire the stunning beauty of a star-filled universe from the Hampstead Scientific Society.

They open their telescope to the public every year, from September to mid-April.

While this is amazing, the times are limited to Fridays and Saturdays from 8pm to 10pm, so be sure to arrive early.

Also, perfect if you’ve kids in your group!

6. The Roller Disco

Have you ever thought of reliving the 80’s?

If your answer is yes, then head over to the Roller Disco in your finest 80s garb and enjoy the best music of the 80’s.

This party starts late and ends later, so be prepared for an exciting night.

This attraction is one of the top in London and usually rates a 4.5/5 stars on major trip report sites.

Please let us know your experience in the comments below.

7. The Black Cat Cabaret

If you prefer glamour to corny 80s music, then the Black Cat Cabaret is the place to be.

The show offers amazing drinks, mouth-watering meals, live music and even circus performers.

As I said though, this show is pure glamour, so dress to impress.

Another plus?

The shows run all-year long.

Final Points

If you’re new to town, remember to stay vigilant, as it’s easy to get lost when in a new city.

While many of the bars and pubs are open until the wee hours, it’s best not to drink too much unless you’ve a reliable ride home.

So, for all you wonderful travelers – have fun, see new things, meet new people, laugh until your stomach hurts and just enjoy all that London’s vibrant night-life has to offer.

7 Must-Take Photos When Traveling In Asia

As a travel photographer, it’s likely important for you to capture those must-take photos when traveling in Asia.

Although truthfully, the best photo locations can often be difficult to reach.

However, with a great tour agency, such as Gatsby Travel, you won’t have to stress about those difficult to reach locations. Gatsby Travel was founded by British travel photographer Andy Beales, and was created to help photographers reach those difficult locations, so that they can capture their perfect shots.

1. Angkor Wat, Cambodia

In the early 12th century, Angkor Wat was originally built as a Hindu temple dedicated to the god Vishnu.

It later became a Buddhist temple at the end of the same century, and is now the world’s largest religious temple.

The temple’s incredible design and grandeur is the result of the wondrous craftsmanship and architecture of its era.

To truly capture the majesty of Angkor Wat, you should be at the temple before the sun rises. This will provide you with the prefect lighting for your shots.

2. Grand Palace, Bangkok

The Grand Palace is a dazzling sight and has been the heart of Thailand since it was built in 1782.

While the Palace is no longer home to the Thai King, it’s still used for ceremonial events.

One such event includes the revered Emerald Buddha (14th century). Each season, The King of Thailand changes the robes on the Buddha, which is an important Buddhist ritual.

The Grand Palace is the shining jewel of Thailand, a definite must for photographers visiting the region.

3. The Great Wall, China

The Great Wall was originally built to protect the Qin Dynasty against invasion, and later, to protect the Han Dynasty’s Silk Road trade.

The Great Wall is possibly China’s greatest landmark and is visited by millions of people each year.

Early morning and late afternoon light provides the perfect ambience for beautiful pictures of the Great Wall.

4. Huangshan, China

Huangshan Mountain is so beautiful that it has become the standard Chinese mountain; the one that is featured in almost every Chinese painting to date.

The jagged peaks of the mountain are often cloaked in mist, creating an air of mystery and enchantment.

Experts say that the best photography opportunities are at sunrise and sunset, when the golden light touches the mist and highlights the unique pines and jagged peaks.

5. Zhangjiajie, China

The giant rock columns of Zhangjiajie became famous after the release of the movie Avatar and its Hallelujah Mountains.

However, these soaring rock towers are not the only stunning attraction to be found in the region.

Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon Glass Bridge is a sight to behold and is a must-see. At 430 meters in length and 300 meters in height, it’s a stunning work of craftsmanship.

6. Rainbow Family Village, Taiwan

To save his military dependents’ village from being demolished, Huang Yung-Fu picked up a paintbrush and turned his drab village into one of vibrant colours, earning the name “Grandpa Rainbow”.

While the now colourful Rainbow Family Village has become a recent tourist attraction, it’s still in danger of being demolished. Furthermore, its sole inhabitant – Grandpa Rainbow – is at risk of losing his home.

By visiting this amazing Rainbow Village, you won’t only capture stunning photos but you may also help this 87-year-old veteran save his home.

7. Banaue Rice Terraces, Philippines

The Banaue Rice Terraces are carved in the Ifugao mountains of the Philippines, and are thought to have been done by hand, over 2,000 years ago.

Vibrant scarlet wildflowers can often be seen along the banks of the rice paddies, providing a marvellous contrast for your photos.

There are numerous pathways scattered across the rice paddies, which provide a convenient means for travellers to explore, although you should take a guide to avoid getting lost.

While you’ll have to trek to reach the terraces, this also means that the usual influx of tourists is happily absent here. As a result, you’ll be able to capture those perfect shots, without the interference of large crowds.

Traveling is always accompanied with some displeasures. Whether it’s a delayed flight, jetlag or some other discomfort, remember that those perfect shots are waiting for you, and they are worth all the fuss.

The Best Way To Explore Islands In Philippines

Have you always wanted to explore the Philippines, but were unsure which destination to choose?

For simplicity’s sake, the best way to explore a few local islands, is with various Philippines all-inclusive packages that are on offer all year round.

There are three top all-inclusive packages: Ultimate Luxury, Family and Classic. These packages allow for up to three destinations each, and offer additional perks, such airfare and transfers.

The tour operator will help you find the best resorts, beaches and hotels. Do you want some privacy with your significant other? Or maybe you’ve kids and need a family-friendly hotel?

Look at what these top 3 all-inclusive packages to see which one would best answer your needs.

The ultimate luxury for honeymoons and holidays out of this world

This Luxury Package will take you to El Nido, Coron and Amanpulo, where you’ll experience a true paradise on Earth.

El Nido in Palawan offers the most romantic and secluded vacation spots in the Philippines. You’ll be taken to secluded islands and lagoons, where you can enjoy your honeymoon without the tourist rush.

In Coron, you’ll find a perfect combination of stunning scenery and adventure. Love the water? You’re in luck! Some of the world’s best diving sites can be found in Coron. Like El Nido, Coron offers an escape from both the modern world and the tourist crowds.

This all-inclusive package includes airfare and transfers, private island resorts and private tours. The ultimate luxury package requires you to stay for a minimum of 10 nights, and your daily costs are estimated at $280.

Take the kids around the islands with no fuss

With a family package, you’ll visit Palawan, Bohol and Cebu. The package includes airfare and transfers, child-friendly resorts and group tours.

In Palawan, you’ll find exquisite beaches, private island resorts and numerous activities and attractions that are suitable for couples and families alike.

Bohol, with its exotic animals, fun-filled adventures and pristine beaches, is an incredibly popular family destination in the Philippines.

And Cebu, as the oldest city in the country, has a large array of historical sites and museums that are great for entertaining the kids.

The family tour requires a minimum 7-night stay and the daily expenses are estimated at $100.

Enjoy a classic beach holiday with your feet up

This is by far the best package, as you get to pick which three destinations you would like to visit.

Whether you want a secluded romantic honeymoon, an action-filled adventure, or family-friendly activities, you can tailor your package to suit your needs.

Before making your choice, ensure that you research each destination carefully. If you’re having trouble deciding, tell your tour operator what you want and expect out of your visit to the Philippines, and they will give some suggestions to choose from.

The budget classic package requires a minimum stay of 8 nights, and your estimated daily cost is $150. Remember, the package includes airfare and transfers, luxury beach resorts and private tours – not bad for $150 a day, right?

Palawan is probably the most popular destination as it’s great for couples and families with small children.

Final thoughts

Remember, these packages can be tailored to your expectations and desires. Your tour operator will ask you a ton of questions to ensure that they know what you want, and they will find the perfect resorts, hotels and activities to suit your needs and your budget.

Thankfully, you don’t have to worry about exceeding your budget. They will find the best accommodation for your money, without compromising on quality.
You’ve decided to volunteer in Africa, but you don’t know how to begin.

As an independent woman, you probably can’t wait to get out there on your solo travels, but you’re also realistic enough to be cautious about embarking on this adventure alone.

Tips for Volunteering in Africa As a Solo Female Traveler

If you’ve never volunteered abroad before, here are a few tips to help you get started.

What can you offer

The first thing you’ll need to decide on is what kind of support you want to offer. What is your skill set? What are you good at? What do you feel will bring the most value to the local community or area? What do you love doing? You should answer these questions before anything else.

If you don’t have a specific skill set, then consider teaching, as there’s always a need for teaching assistants in Africa.

Choosing the right organization and program

Choosing the right organization can be tricky. Scams are an unfortunate part of life today, and you need to be cautious when choosing an organization to work with. Try getting recommendations from previous volunteers, and perhaps choose a social enterprise not a charity.

Once you’ve chosen an organization, it’s time to decide on a program. Try not to choose a program that keeps the locals dependent on foreign aid. Instead, look for community outreach or empowerment programs. The ones which teach locals to do things for themselves, are usually the best option.

Conduct your own research

This is essential. Research everything that revolves around your chosen organization and program. Speak to previous volunteers that travelled to the same region and did similar projects – and not just the volunteers that the organization puts you in touch with. Speak to volunteers who used other organizations as well, to get a real understanding of what you can expect.

Ask questions

This is especially important if you’re paying to volunteer; ask them what the money is for. You should also ask the organization about the positive effects that they have on the community. Don’t be afraid to question everything. You can only make a proper decision, if you’re properly informed.

When communicating about the program with the organization, make sure to ask how soon you’ll be involved once you arrive. Find out what they expect of you, and how your days will be planned. Will you be working alone, with other volunteers or with the community itself? These are important things for you to know.

Depending on the program you choose, your role could be varied or singular. Make sure that you at least have a brief overview of what you’ll be doing for the duration of your program.

Ethical considerations

While I know how wonderful it may sound to work with orphans or animals, there are some very important ethics to consider. Orphanage tourism is quite a big enterprise, and you need to consider if this may be exploiting the children.

If you want to volunteer at an orphanage, you don’t really need to leave your country to do it. Remember, if you choose a program such as teaching or social work, you’ll still be able to help children in Africa, but not in a way that might possibly exploit them.

The same applies to wildlife. I’m sure you’ve heard of programs that involve feeding or playing with lion cubs or something similar. These programs don’t always have the best interest of the animals in mind, and you need to be extremely cautious if choosing one of these.

Hand rearing wild animals is rarely a good thing unless they have been abandoned or orphaned, as they will be too domesticated to ever set free. If you really want to work with wildlife, try connecting with a national park or wildlife reserve, and see if they are accepting volunteers.

As always, it’s important to remain aware and vigilant while traveling. The volunteer program itself is likely to be very safe – it’s getting there that might pose some risks. Please follow the basic travel safety guidelines, such as never traveling at night.

Don’t wear excessive and expensive jewelery either, as that is just tempting fate.

Hopefully the tips I’ve provided will help you make an informed decision. Now, go change the world!

Cruise Ideas For Adventurous Women

As tempting as it’s to just put your finger on the map, the best thing to do when choosing the right cruise destination, is to first determine what it’s you want to see and experience.

Make a list of your top expectations and desires for the trip, and then choose the one that ticks off all your boxes.

Antarctica Circle Cruise

Visiting Antarctica is an incredible experience, with the rough Drake Passage that takes 48 hours to cross, and the Lemaire Channel with its spectacular ice cliffs.

The Antarctica Circle Cruise takes the less-travelled west-coast route, where you’ll get to see amazing iceberg formations at Hope Bay (did you know that they glow blue in the water?) and an abundance of seals and whales at Paradise Harbour.

The ship will also make a stop at Deception Bay, on Deception Island, where a hot spring is located. Although it’s technically a hot spring, the water is anything but hot. Despite this, the option to swim will be available to you.
The cruise lasts around 14 days and is priced from $8,500 and up.

Glacier Bay Cruise, Alaska

One of the most popular ways to explore Alaska is via the Inside Channel, and Glacier Bay is by far the most popular destination, due to the calving glacier.

While the cruise usually takes place in summer (April – September), the temperature is still cold. Don’t let this put you off though, as there are plenty of activities available to warm you right up!

While you’re there, be sure to take a flight-seeing trip, as this will enable you to see the gorgeous rainforest, abundance of wildlife and stunning icebergs from a unique perspective.

The cruise lasts 7 nights and is priced from $500 and up.

Svalbard Cruise, Arctic

As the Norwegian archipelago of islands, Svalbard offers gorgeous landscapes and amazing wildlife, including roughly 3,000 Polar bears, the arctic fox and the narwhal whale.

The cruise usually takes place in the summer months, from the tail-end of February to the beginning of October, as this is when the ice is thin enough for cruise ships to pass through. If you’re hoping to see the Northern Lights, you should choose an itinerary in late February or late September to early October.

There are number of activities available to you, but if you want a specific activity (like swimming or scuba diving) then you should choose your itinerary carefully, as not all cruises will offer the same options. You should also be aware that certain activities may cost extra.

The cruise lasts roughly 10 days and is usually priced between $4,000 and $9,000 or more.

Galapagos Cruise, South America

Galapagos is an archipelago of volcanic islands, with warm temperatures all year-round.

As a tropical destination, Galapagos has a lot to offer in the marine life department: sharks, whales, dolphins, seals, sea turtles and tropical fish, as well numerous wildlife. There are also loads of activities to spice up your cruise, although diving is only permitted to registered and experienced divers.

The cruise can last from 4 nights to 2 weeks, depending on your itinerary and is priced between $800 – $6, 200 or more. However, to get the most out of your cruise, take a 10-night itinerary, which will allow you to visit all the islands.

Tahiti Cruise, South Pacific Islands

Tahiti has long been thought of as a tropical paradise, and it’s perfect for adventure-lovers, romantic interludes and relaxing getaways.

The French Polynesia Only cruises includes many of the other islands in French Polynesia, including Tahaa, Bora Bora and Huahine, and lasts between 7 – 13 nights ($7,000 – $20,000 or more).

There are also longer cruises, which can last from 20 – 50 nights, and are priced from $1,500 – $10,000 and up. These cruises usually begin in Los Angeles, New York, Fort Lauderdale, San Diego, Sydney and Auckland.

Certain cruises will also take you from Tahiti to Easter Island and if this is your preference then choose your itinerary carefully.

Remember that no matter where you end up in the world, your safety should be your main priority. Enjoy your adventure to the fullest, but don’t take unnecessary risks.

6 Ways to Prepare For Your Next Holiday In South Africa

The ‘rainbow nation’ of South Africa has become a popular holiday destination worldwide for solo travelers, honeymooning couples and families with children alike.

It’s no doubt the stunning landscapes and captivating wildlife that attract so many people to the country, meaning there are a lot of people who need some tips on how to prepare for their travels. And that’s where we come in with our 6 ways to prepare for your next holiday in South Africa.

Research the temperatures and climate

It’s always a good idea to research the particular season and weather of said season before you go away anywhere, not least South Africa. Doing so will allow you to be prepared for the heat, the rain and the cooler mornings and evenings.

If you’re headed to South Africa for a wildlife safari, one of the best ways to prepare for the trip is by researching the weather and what it means for the animals you may or may not be seeing while away. Depending on the season, you might be lucky enough to catch migrations and to see a wide variety of animals congregating at watering holes. The hot weather also means the vegetation is less dense which is more conducive to spotting a wide assortment of animals. We would also recommend taking into account the weather in the mornings and evenings when preparing for a trip to South Africa as you’re often out on game drives in the morning, and spend evenings underneath the setting sun. Climate research is a must before heading to South Africa.

Make a packing list

Every seasoned traveller will tell you that making a packing list is vitally important so that you don’t forget anything important when in South Africa. Or, so that you don’t forget the little things that matter to you.

On your packing list, you should account for how many outfits you’ll need (and spares depending on what you’re doing while on holiday), sun cream and a camera with some good storage capabilities. Remember to pack important documents and copies of them too, including your passport and bank card, as well as booking confirmations for safaris and hotels or safari lodges.

A packing list will save you from a lot of travel disasters every time – especially if you’ve kids! Oh, and another life hack: if you’re traveling as family or group pack a bit of everyone’s clothes in every case so that if one gets lost, everyone still has access to clothes.

You may also want to make a list of the things you’ve to do before you travel, like renewing the car insurance or paying your phone bill. You know, the boring, everyday stuff.

Be streetwise

The media often reports that South Africa has a high crime rate but in many cases is simply a classic case of sensational reporting in the media. A lot of crimes actually takes place away from large tourist areas, so there’s no need to be too concerned. Still, it’s important that you’re aware of the need to be streetwise when visiting most South African towns and cities, just as you would in any other unknown place.

For example, don’t use ATM machines in secluded areas or after dark, and never withdraw large amounts of cash. Although most incidents of violent crime occur away from tourist areas, you just want to ensure that the risk to your person and your belongings is minimal.

Make sure you’re medically prepared for your trip

One of the best ways to prepare for your next trip to South Africa is to ensure that you’re medically prepared for your trip. This means finding out whether the areas of South Africa you’re visiting have high malaria rates, meaning you’ll need to buy some malaria tablets.

To find out if you need any malaria tablets, we’d recommend making an appointment with your GP to enquire further about the kinds of tablets available and their side effects as well as the level of risk to your person. Private clinics are also good for this kind of health advice, and will also be able to equip you with the tablets in many cases.

Another way to ensure that you’re medically prepared is to make sure your travel insurance covers any medical issues you may have while visiting South Africa.. Ensure you read the policy statement that comes with your insurance and keep an eye out for hospital stays and medical treatment.

Check your country’s visa requirements

While most countries don’t require a visa to stay in South Africa, it’s important to note that you’ll need to double check if you require one. You can do that through your government’s official website or through South Africa’s government’s website.

If you’re planning on staying in South Africa for more than 90 days, you’ll require a visa, regardless of where you’re from. Ensure you leave a good amount of time to get your visa so that the process is as smooth as possible.

Change your currency

Finally, remember that the South African Rand is the currency accepted in the country. Start following the exchange rates a few months before you head off, to allow for you to get the best price for your money. The South African rand is relatively weak against the US Dollar, Euro or Pound Sterling, which bodes well for tourists descending from these regions.

6 Unexpected Solo Travel Destinations

When traveling alone there’s a whole list of destinations that you’re expected to visit. Pretty much everywhere in Europe is where you’d expect to find a solo traveller, as well as some cities in the US and Australia and New Zealand.

But there are so many places around the world where solo travelers belong, no matter how long or short the flight is, or how rich or poor the country is.

Solo travelers can have a whole lot of fun all around the world, so, without further ado, here are our 6 unexpected solo travel destinations.

1. Dubai

Most people see Dubai as a place to go with ‘the girls’ on an expensive hen do, or with their partner for a romantic and extravagant getaway. However, Dubai has so much to offer that it’s a great place for solo travellers, especially with so much to look at explore.

From the Burj Khalifa to the Burj Al Arab and the desert camel rides to the Mall of the Emirates. Dubai is an awe-inspiring city, and due to its many sightseeing and shopping opportunities, it’s indeed one of our 6 unexpected solo travel destinations. We bet you’re looking at the price of a flight and a hotel now!

2. Las Vegas

It’s fair to say that Las Vegas isn’t a place you’d associate with solo travel. It’s for couples willing to explore the Sin City openly and together, or for a ‘lads’ holiday, or even a ‘girlie’ trip. For just one person to go to Las Vegas, people usually suspect the seedier side of things there at work. But it doesn’t have to be, and Vegas is certainly one of the 6 unexpected solo travel destinations that is a rewarding place to go.

As with Dubai, there are plenty of attractions that don’t require a date, immediately allowing for a solo traveller to get stuck in. From getting tickets to Vegas shows like Celine Dion at Caesar’s Palace to walking down the Strip and soaking up all of the high-stakes and emotions circulating it. And if you’re a solo traveller, you won’t have the problem of spending way too much on gambling and alcohol as you’ve got no one to poorly influence you.

3. India

A lot of people head to India on organized group trips, or with their significant other. Solo travelers are present, of course, but there aren’t really all that many from the West due to perceptions of the country being unsafe. However, India is one of the most beautiful places on Earth, and it’s a place that will change your life undoubtedly.

India as a solo travel destination is great because you’ll meet so many new people while traveling there and will get the chance to be taken under a lot of people’s wings. You’ll be able to see all of the sights you would with a group and participate in all of the activities you would with a group too. From wildlife-spotting tours to walking down market streets, India is one of the best 6 solo travel destinations on our list.

4. Thailand

Thailand is increasingly becoming a popular tourist spot for young couples who want to experience something a little different than usual for their annual holiday. And while its romantic white beaches and aquamarine sea are perfect for couples, they also make for stunning vistas for the ambitious solo traveller too.

As many are discovering, Thailand has many volunteering opportunities in genuine wildlife sanctuaries which are popular among tourists. For a solo traveller, these are perfect opportunities and ways to get totally involved in Thailand and to give back to the world in one small way. We would always advise erring on the side of caution when it comes to picking out wildlife sanctuaries, however, and make sure they are genuine and the animals are being well looked after.

5. South Africa

Last on our list of 6 unexpected solo travel destinations is the rainbow nation of South Africa. A country packed with amazing things to do and see, it’s perfect for solo travelers who want to see some of the most spectacular sights on planet Earth.

Solo travelers in South Africa can expect to be blown away by the safaris offered to them, where they can spot lions, leopards, giraffes, elephants and so much more. Instead of waiting around to find someone to go on safari with, book up for a safari in South Africa yourself. You’ll have a great time.

Plus, you’re never alone in the African bush. There’s always a spider watching. Or a buffalo.

The Artsy Wanderlust – Best Vacation Spots in Europe

While some women would consider going to the beach and partying all night their perfect holiday, other women consider getting lost in big museums, libraries, and cultural festivals the best getaway.

Some women have a taste for the arts and a big appreciation for diverse culture as their best vacation spots, that any form of holiday without them would always seem incomplete.

To bring out that artsy wanderlust within you while you’re on vacation and having a great time, check out these best vacation spots for single women who love art and culture:

Prague

Considered as the artist’s paradise, Prague should definitely be on the top of your list of best vacation spots in Europe. Every art-loving woman would enjoy the different museums, rich history, gothic architecture, and its famous opera, ballet, and music concerts.

As one of the best vacation spots for single women who love art and culture, the must-see places in Prague include the St. Vitus Cathedral, The Hradcany Castle, The Old Church of Our Lady, Charles Bridge, Lennon Wall, Astronomical Clock, and Stredoscesky. Must- experience entertainment include its variety of festivals like the Writer’s Festival, Wine Festival, and Summer Shakespeare Festival, castle seeing, and the Ghosts and Legends of Prague Walking Tour for you to experience the most haunted places in Prague – but this definitely isn’t for the weak-hearted!

Vienna, Austria

Unlike other artistic European cities like Paris which are better explored by lovers, Vienna can be every single woman’s artistic retreat. As one of the vacation spots in Europe for single women who love art and culture, Vienna offers many artistic attractions and a compelling royal history. It’s primarily known for its Imperial history, Opera, coffee houses, and rich music and culture.

When in Vienna, be sure to check out the Museums Quarter (and if you’ve time, all of its 100 museums), State Opera House, Volks Opera, Imperial Palace, Schonbrunn Palace, St. Stephen’s Cathedral, Danube Tower, the Art Nouveau and works of Gustav Klimt, Winter Palace, and a whole lot of other places. Another thing that makes Vienna one of the best vacation spots is its Ball Season and the Vienna Ice World.

Barcelona

Another city to visit, perfect for single women who love art and culture is Barcelona. Barcelona is especially perfect for those who want to explore the wonders of a place on foot because its size makes it ideal for just walking and strolling around. Just by walking around, you’ll be able to see the rich modernist architecture around the city.

Other must-see and go-to places in Barcelona for the artsy wanderlust include the La Pedrera, Park Güell, the World Heritage Site Hospital dela Santa Creu i Sant Pau, music venues like the Gran Teatre del Liceu, Razzmatazz, and Apolo, churches with magnificent art and architecture like Santa Maria del Mar and Sant Pau de Camp, and even just ordinary parks where you’ll discover some great art.

Florence

Florence is definitely one of Europe’s hotbeds for art, history, and culture. It’s the birthplace of Italian Renaissance and the home to the biggest names in the world of art, including Michaelangelo’s David.

It’s surely one of the best vacation spots for single women who love art and culture since the place has one of the greatest preserved Renaissance artworks and masterpieces. The cathedrals and structures that survived the Roman age, world-class art galleries and museums, and the too many to mention masterpieces of the superstars in the world of art make Florence definitely on top of the list of best vacation spots in Europe.

Rome

And while you’re in Florence, why not make the most of your holiday by taking a train to Rome? Rome is every historian’s haven. Rich history, magnificent art, delicious food, and much of the Italian culture will greet you in Rome. Any artsy wanderlust would be excited to visit the Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, Spanish Steps, Roman Forum, and Pantheon – the places that defined Rome’s history and early mankind’s history too.

Other places that make Rome one of the best vacation spots for single women who love art and culture include Vatican Museum and Library, Sistine Chapel, the Pope’s much awaited appearance, Roman Opera, Roman museums and galleries, Trastevere, Piazza Navona, Vatican City and many more.

If you’re an artsy wanderlust, or if you’re one who wants to have a holiday that is relaxing, educational, and enriching, then these vacation spots are the best getaway for you. Be ready to be inspired and enriched with the vibrant artwork, amazing architecture, vivid history, and rich culture in these great vacation spots for single women who love art and culture.

Travel Apps for your Vacation

Do you know what is more frustrating than being lost in an airport when you’re about to leave to one of the most remarkable vacations? Bad packing. You know you’re missing something but just can’t figure out what it is. What’s worse is that you might actually forget something.

Luckily, there are mobile travel apps that can help you pack – or unpack – without batting an eyelash. These apps can guide you on what you should bring and what you should leave, among other things. Some of these mobile apps are so versatile that you can also customize by adding some items into categories.

To better understand and learn more about these apps, this article is divided into categories, too. Find which category you belong to and check out what smartphone travel apps are most suitable for you and your vacation.

Are you going to Paris or some other fashion city?

If you want to catalogue shoes and clothes like your sweaters, skirts, and other items, Closet+ is the app for you. This app can record your clothes and shoes. You can then check them as if you were doing your playlist. Closet+ lets you plan your wardrobe as if you were in some kind of runway.

Another app that might be suitable for those fashionable ladies out there’s Stylebook. Think of yourself as Stacy Dash from the movie Clueless. Remember how she organizes her clothes? That’s how Stylebook does the job. It categorizes the clothes and makes your own virtual closet. You can also mix and match your clothes using this app. Stylebook costs $3.99.

Do you forget stuff during your vacation?

Travel List, which costs $1.99, can notify you of the things that you need or have forgotten. This app has a reminder button that you can use to prompt you to start packing. You can also make the app notify you of some things that you usually do at the last minute. Say you want to pack your phone charger about 30 minutes before you leave for the airport. Instead of making a mental note and ending up forgetting about it, you can set an alarm through this app. This way, you always have that often-left-behind charger.

Are you going camping?

TripList would be the perfect app for you. This wonderful app costs nothing. But there’s the pro-version, which costs $2.99. This app has an items list where you can categorize which things you want on a particular vacation. Also, there’s a task category where you can add some tasks that you wish to do a few minutes before leaving your home.

There are many travel apps for you out there, but these three apps are categorized based on your current needs. Why don’t you give them a try?

Museums as Vacation Destinations? Why Not!

For the artsy single lady, museums are like magnets. Whether it’s as large as the Louvre or as small as the Frick Collection in New York, women love these places. Niche destinations are becoming the fad nowadays. Single women don’t just travel just because they want to travel. They love to travel and find vacation destinations because they want to experience an entirely new world in another part of the globe.

There are vacation destinations that target all kinds of beaches. There are those vacations that focus on a certain type of food. Of course, one just cannot do away with the vacations that have the museums in mind.

Museums are great windows to the past and the future. In addition to that, museums as vacation destinations present an entirely different experience when you’re seeing the culture and history behind the objects. So, here are some museums that women can use as the pivotal points in their vacations.

American Museums

The first stop is the United States of America. Go to Memphis, Tennessee for some Civil Rights history. Martin Luther King, Jr. led a protest here. After a few days, he was shot and killed. It’s but proper that the National Civil Rights Museum is in this city. In this museum, you can find the beginnings of the Black Movement in the United States of America.

You can ride the replica bus where Rosa Parks, the mother of the freedom movement, had her act of defiance against the government. This is just one of the interactive activities you can include in your vacation destinations.

With more than 10 galleries and theatres, Newseum in Washington, D.C. is a remarkable sight. There, you can find top stories of the day. There are also galleries that feature major world events like hurricanes, revolts, and the like. You can also see world-changing events, replicas and actual shades of the Berlin Wall, an antenna from the World Trade Center, and other fascinating things. You can also see stories about reporters who’ve given their lives in the name of reporting. Prepare to shed a tear or two on this one.

European Museums

Of course, the list would not be complete if there was no mention of museums in Europe. So if you’re on one of your European vacations, don’t forget to visit the museums.

Opulence is the proper term if you’re going to describe museums in France. You might be attracted to the Louvre Museum, but Paris has many of these museums. Become more intimate with the works of art in smaller museums such as the Musée de l’Orangerie.

The view alone is already a sight to behold. It’s located beside the Seine and in the Tuileries Gardens. If you like impressionists like Monet and Matisse, this is the museum for you. The stunning masterpiece, Water Lilies, by Monet is housed here.

Galleria Borghese in Rome is another place where you can see notable Renaissance collections. You can find works of Titian, Rubens, Raphael, and Bernini housed in the halls of this former villa.

Museums are must-visits when you’re on vacation destinations. Whether you’re in Europe or in the United States, be sure to visit one of these museums to learn about the history of the world.

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My hubby and I are constantly on the road. After over 40 countries I became an editor of the Travel Section at Independent Femme, and I'm more interested in seeing even more new places than ever. Feel free to drop me a line to let me know which destination you'd like to see featured next!